Minestrone Soup

This is an easy and delicious version of Minestrone Soup.  Great for fall and winter meals.

Frozen zucchini, carrots, broccoli, and beans are sometimes called an "Italian Blend," and can be found in your supermarket's frozen section. Small pasta shapes (dreamfield's whole wheat or your favorite brand).

Serves 4 to 6

         6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

         1 (15.5-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

         1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes

         2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for serving

         2 onions, chopped fine

         4 garlic cloves, minced

         1/2 cup pasta, dry (see above)

         1 (16-ounce) bag frozen vegetables (see above)

         1/4 cup minced fresh basil leaves (while fresh is best, I have used dry)

         Table salt and ground black pepper to taste

Bring broth, beans, and tomatoes to boil in large saucepan.  Heat oil in soup pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add onions  cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook  about 30 seconds. Stir in broth / tomato mixture and pasta and simmer until pasta is tender, about  10 minutes.

Stir in vegetables and basil and cook until heated through, about 4 minutes. (vegetables will be al dente) Season with salt and pepper. 

Serve with additional olive oil for drizzling. Top with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese.